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This week, we delved into the ongoing challenge faced by Android gamers, particularly concerning popular titles like Call of Duty: Mobile, which are currently unavailable for installation on Googlebooks via the Play Store. Whether the issue stems from absent developer whitelists or overly aggressive anti-cheat measures, the absence of beloved apps at launch can be quite disappointing.
However, thanks to Googlebook OS being built on Android 17, users are not confined to the limitations of the Play Store. If an essential app isn’t accessible through official channels, sideloading is a viable alternative.
For those who have spent years navigating ChromeOS, the memory of needing to activate Developer Mode just to install an APK may still linger. Fortunately, Googlebook users can breathe a sigh of relief; sideloading is now as seamless as it is on a Pixel smartphone right out of the box. In just a few minutes, I was able to get Call of Duty: Mobile up and running with ease.
The simple sideloading process
Downloading and installing an APK on Googlebook OS is remarkably simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:
- Download your APK: Open your Chrome browser and navigate to a trusted repository, such as APKMirror, to download the desired APK file.
- Click to open: After the download is complete, click on the file in the pop-up download toast or locate it in the Files app.
- Allow unknown apps: A pop-up will appear, warning you about installing from unknown sources. Just like on an Android device, toggle the switch to “Install unknown apps” for Chrome.
- Install and play: The system will process the package, and the app will be added to your app launcher, ready for use.
Using this straightforward method, I successfully sidestepped the Play Store block, installed Call of Duty: Mobile, and jumped straight into a match without any significant issues.
A quick word of caution
While the freedom to sideload applications on a desktop operating system is a remarkable feature, it does come with a degree of responsibility and caution.
The reassuring news is that Google Play Protect operates in the background on Googlebook OS, continuously monitoring installed applications for any malicious activity, just as it does on your smartphone. Nevertheless, exercising caution is still paramount. Always sideload APKs from reputable, well-known sources, and steer clear of downloading random application packages from unverified websites.
While I would prefer to see developers optimize and whitelist their apps for the Play Store on Googlebook, eliminating the need for workarounds, the presence of a simple and efficient sideloading option in your browser is undeniably a significant advantage for power users during these early stages of the platform.
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